Four Steps Towards More Energy and Health

The author Linda Hawes Clever, MD has identified fatigue as a harbinger of bad things to come among the more driven of society. However, the not-so-driven should understand that fatigue is relentless in torturing all segments of our population: Exhaustion can come from coping with unexpected experiences such as grief and illness. Boredom can lead to fatigue.

Hence, through research and focus groups, Dr. Clever has developed what she describes as the Fatigue Prescription, with its four steps to travel beyond the isolation that so often accompanies the fatigue:

Conversation allows us to enjoy each other, and perhaps learn solutions and coping strategies from those who are fighting the same demons. And we really should know things such as how many times the other guy laughed yesterday. Do we all overreact to life’s stressors? Are we all trapped in our own lives? Do any of us say positive or encouraging things to our peers?

A visit to a doctor usually is needed when fatigue occurs along with more serious symptoms, such as increased breathing problems, signs of a serious illness, abnormal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss or gain.

If fatigue occurs without an obvious cause, it is important to evaluate one’s mental health. Fatigue is a common symptom of mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.

I believe the Fatigue Prescription is just what the doctor ordered—for the patient, and the doctor.